Savannah Standard

Based on expected impacts from Hurricane Helene, Mayor Van R. Johnson, II, in coordination with other municipalities, has declared a state of local emergency in Savannah effective Wednesday, Sept. 25 at noon.

A state of local emergency provides the City Manager the authority to execute emergency management plans and procure necessary resources to prepare for and respond to any impacts brought on by Tropical Storm Helene.

Currently, Chatham County is under a Tropical Storm Warning and forecasted to receive 2-4 inches of rain with localized higher amounts. There is potential for a 1-3 foot storm surge. The greatest impact may come from high winds. There is currently a 20-30% chance of Tropical Storm winds arriving Thursday evening. The peak wind forecast is 25-35 mph with gusts up to 45 mph.

The City will provide residents and businesses with sand and sandbags ahead of the forecasted rainfall. Sandbags will be limited to 10 bags per resident. Residents are asked to bring their own shovel to fill the bags.

Sandbags will be available Wednesday, Sept. 25 from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m., and on Thursday, Sept. 26 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., while supplies last and weather allows in the parking lot next to the EnMarket Arena at 1100 W. Gwinnett St.

City crews have already begun preparation for the storm, clearing storm drains and catch basins and providing additional maintenance to storm water systems. The City does not anticipate any major interruptions to sanitation services at this time. Residents are encouraged to secure their refuse and recycling carts ahead of the storm.

Savannah residents and businesses are urged to review emergency plans and kits ahead of the arrival of inclement weather.

For questions about City services or to submit a service request, residents can call 311 or submit requests online. For updates specific to the City of Savannah, residents are encouraged to follow @cityofsavannah on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter.